Berwick joins 'Day of Prayer for Law Enforcement'

BERWICK — A big crowd turned out Monday for the town of Berwick and the East Ministerial Alliance’s “Day of Prayer for Law Enforcement” at the Berwick Civic Complex.
Gov. Bobby Jindal proclaimed Sept. 14 as a statewide day of prayer for law enforcement and encouraged state leaders, local officials, and church organizations to honor all law enforcement on this date.
In the proclamation, Jindal said, “I invite all Louisianans who choose to join prayer to ask for protection over our law enforcement men and women, to thank God for his many blessings and to seek a spiritual revival among the people of Louisiana.”
Local ministers of east St. Mary Parish recited the governor’s proclamation, offered prayers, and words of encouragement for law enforcement throughout the service.
East St. Mary Ministerial Alliance president Steven Kelly was pleased with the event’s turnout. He is also pastor of Bayou Vista Baptist Church.
“It was more than I anticipated,” said Kelly. “The community was well-represented.”
“I was very pleased to see the support we had, especially from the general public,” Berwick Police Chief James Richard said. “When the officers stood, you could tell the difference in the crowd. There were just as many or more officers than the general public there, so I’m very thankful for that.”
“It was humbling to look at the area supporting law enforcement like they do,” Morgan City Police Chief James Blair said.
Community members and law enforcement officers showed up in great numbers. Additional chairs were set out to accommodate unexpected numbers of people in attendance.
“I was thoroughly impressed with the turnout. It was awesome,” Berwick Mayor Louis Ratcliff said. “The program went really well.”
The parish sheriff and local police chiefs appreciated the effort of public officials and ministers, as well as community support.
“It was very consoling to know we have a good rapport in the community,” said St. Mary Parish Sheriff Mark Hebert.
Patterson Police Chief Patrick LaSalle was “touched” by those present at the prayer service.
“You hear all these warm words and strong encouragement for law enforcement, but every time I turn around we’re being attacked,” LaSalle said. “There’s always someone complaining, and we’re the ones that have to step up, which I understand.
“These young people, men and women, put their lives on the line every day. I’m just hoping that everybody understands this is not a one-day thing,” LaSalle said.
While the service turnout was impressive and the ministers’ sentiments were moving, Ratcliff desires to see this as an ongoing event.
“I hope that we can do this annually because it’s well-deserved,” Ratcliff said.

This story was written by Shea Drake of The Daily Review staff. Reach her at sdrake@daily-review.com